In honor of World Sickle Cell Day and Juneteenth, CEO Chatter is spotlighting a true warrior in both science and community: Dr. Lakiea Bailey, a nationally recognized sickle cell disease advocate, educator, and research scientist. Diagnosed with sickle cell disease at the age of three, Dr. Bailey has spent her life not only surviving but radically transforming how the disease is addressed in America and beyond.
She is the founder and executive director of the Sickle Cell Community Consortium, a pioneering network that unites patients, caregivers, nonprofits, researchers, and policy leaders to center the voices of those directly impacted by the disease.
“If helplessness can be learned, then it can be unlearned,” Dr. Bailey says. “So whatever the problems we see, we can work together to address them.”
Her journey from patient to powerhouse wasn’t easy. While pursuing a doctorate in molecular hematology, she experienced health crises that forced her to reevaluate her path. But rather than slow down, she pivoted toward purpose—establishing the Consortium as a home for solutions, strategy, and support.
“I realized that my mother stayed on her knees so that I could stay on my feet,” she reflects. “That faith and support pushed me through the hardest moments of my academic career.”
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, the Consortium is gearing up for its largest event to date: the 12th Annual Sickle Cell Warriors Convention in Orlando, Florida. It’s a dynamic experience blending education, entertainment, and empowerment for hundreds of warriors and their families.
Dr. Bailey’s message is clear: sickle cell is not just a Black disease—it’s a blood disease, and it impacts people of all backgrounds. But historically, Black and Brown communities have been most affected and least supported. Through her advocacy, she’s working to change that.
“We refuse to be left behind,” she says. “If transformative therapies are being perfected on our backs, then they should benefit us—without a $2 million price tag.”
From building policy change to encouraging bone marrow donations, Dr. Bailey’s leadership is helping redefine what’s possible for those living with sickle cell. And with each initiative, she reminds us: we are the cure.
Learn More:
🔗 Sickle Cell Community Consortium
🔗 Warriors Convention Info + Registration
📲 Join the marrow registry by texting SC3 to 61474
IG: Follow @sscconsortium
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